Harbour City Ferries, a corporate partnership owned 50/50 by Transfield Services and Veolia Transdev, welcomed being appointed by the NSW Government to maintain and operate Sydney ferry services this week, subject to several conditions and precedents.

The estimated contract value over the seven year period is A$800 million with the possibility of an extension if performance targets are met. 

"We want to operate a world class ferry service on what is often cited as the world’s most beautiful harbour," said Harbour City Ferries CEO, Steffen Faurby.

"We acknowledge and respect Sydney Ferries rich history and, accordingly, there will be a steady transition into capable hands and only minor changes will be noticed over the short term."

"Our goal is to gradually raise the customer experience to another level by listening to customers and tailor making improvements around their expectations.

"We look forward to working closely with customers and the NSW Government to evolve this iconic service."

Harbour City Ferries said service efficiency, reliability, safety, cleanliness and staff friendliness were priorities, along with welcoming and integrating Sydney Ferries employees into the new organisation.

The partnership is a collaboration of two substantial companies, Veolia Transdev and Transfield Services, proven experts in public transport, essential services and asset management.

"Transfield Services has been working on this project for several years and we are delighted to have now been given the opportunity to improve one of Sydney’s proudest institutions," said Peter Goode, Managing Director and CEO of Transfield Services.

"Like Transfield Services, Veolia Transdev has been working on the Sydney Ferries opportunity for five years and is ready to begin the transformation as soon as possible,” said Jonathan Metcalfe, CEO of Veolia Transdev Australasia.

"The key to success will be putting customers at the centre of our decision making process. We have done this with many public transport operations around the world, including here in Sydney, and relish the chance to do so on Sydney Harbour," said Mr Metcalfe.

The contract is expected to commence at the end of July 2012.